The North Face Point Five NG overtrousers are mountaineering pants with all the features you need for tackling the toughest terrain in the toughest of conditions. So you get a tough 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro Shell fabric with abrasion patches at the ankle cuff. The side zips are full-length, there is a gaiter inside the ankle and braces are provided to ensure the trousers stay in place while you scramble. 5/5

Fit

Available in men’s 30 to 38 inch waist with both regular and long leg lengths, but no women’s version is available. The fit is very good thanks to articulated knees and those braces that ensure they stay in place. The internal gaiter gets a lace hook to keep it in place but there is no adjustment on the calf or cuff, however it was not too flappy here. 5/5

Comfort

The North Face Point Five NG overtrousers have no stretch, and they’re made of robust 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro Shell so they are more restrictive than lighter trousers. But they protect against wind and rain better than light options. A double zip at the fly would have made toilet breaks easier, while stretch in the waistband may have eased comfort. Quite heavy too, making them a burden in a rucksack. 4/5

In use

Like a lot of kit designed for mountaineering and alpinists, The North Face Point Five NG overtrousers are superb for walking or scrambling to the top of Lakeland fells, Munros and Welsh summits in the toughest of weather. I’m always cautious about exposed side zips, but these have not leaked yet. I love the rest of the design in use and would choose these for tough conditions. 5/5

Value

TNF Point Five NG overtrousers carry the highest price tag and are heavy, but they offer the best performance for the toughest conditions. 3/5

Verdict

The North Face Point Five NG overtrousers are among the best you can buy for when the going gets really tough; the drawbacks are weight and price. 4.4/5